Abstract

Study Design: Prospective Observational Cohort Study in a tertiary eye care center in South India from July to September 2024
Purpose: Investigate keratoconus prevalence in first-degree relatives via corneal topography, exploring familial aggregation.
Methods: First-degree family members of 29 keratoconus-diagnosed patients were invited to undergo Orbscan topography. 22 families consented, yielding 58 topographies. Prevalence, analyzed using STATA 17.0, was compared via chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests.
Results: No significant effect was observed, but some correlation was noted. Not all first-degree relatives could be screened.
Conclusion: This study not only contributes to the scientific understanding of keratoconus but also serves as a platform for educating families about the condition's familial nature, the importance of early detection, and potential preventive actions. This knowledge empowers families to take proactive steps to manage and reduce the impact of keratoconus.